15 best motherboard

What to look for when choosing a motherboard?

Before proceeding to the ranking of the best motherboards, let's take a look at what features you should look in the store.

1. Socket. We consider this parameter the most important. Chose the "motherboard" socket (connector for the CPU on the Board) that does not match the CPU socket? Will have to return back. Accordingly, manufacturers of CPUs AMD and Intel also use completely different connectors, so the fees for them are not interchangeable. Always check for a socket that processor mate. Board. Modern sockets for Intel — LGA 1150/1151, LGA 2011/2066 for AMD — AM3/AM3+/AM4.
2. Chipset. It's the North bridge, which is a chipset. It is the link between all PC-connectable devices. Different models of chipsets are suitable for different types of computers. For example, modern Intel chipsets, as X99 and X299, — an ultimatum for a powerful PC, but B250 and H270 are great for office and simple home systems. Accordingly, chipsets AMD X450/470 suitable for enthusiasts and A320 — for office or multimedia use.
3. Form factor. The parameter that determines the size of the Board. Standard ATX dimensions 305х244 mm, is considered a great form factor. Smaller alternatives — miniATX, microATX, miniITX, etc. the more Mat. the fee, the more useful it can accommodate and the better the heat dissipation due to the larger space between the components. For systems of low productivity useful compact form factors, which also make the process of moving/carrying the system unit is much more convenient.
4. The RAM slots (RAM). The motherboard can have a different number of slots for RAM modules (1 to 32), type of connector for them (the most popular and modern — DDR4) and the maximum amount of memory (in GB, up to 256).
5. Support various interfaces for external connections. To those primarily include USB, PCI, PCI-E, SATA, Ethernet (RJ-45), Audio other. Pay attention to the version of the ports. USB 3.0/3.1 are much faster than USB 2.0, and SATA III — direct need to connect a fast SSD-drive. Also bad, if the built-in network card has a limit on the speed to 100 MB/s, although this is rare. You may need two network Ethernet port or built-in wireless module Wi-Fi, which will offer not every model.
6. Manufacturer. To those primarily include USB, PCI, PCI-E, SATA, Ethernet (RJ-45), Audio other. Pay attention to the version of the ports. USB 3.0/3.1 are much faster than USB 2.0, and SATA III — direct need to connect a fast SSD-drive. Also bad, if the built-in network card has a limit on the speed to 100 MB/s, although this is rare. You may need two network Ethernet port or built-in wireless module Wi-Fi, which will offer not every model.

Finish with important settings, and go directly to the rating of 2020, according to user reviews.

The best motherboard for socket AM4

Connector AM4 introduced in 2017, today is the most current socket for AMD processors. Supports processors of different levels, such as A6/A8/A10/A12, Athlon 200GE/ 220GE, 240GE, X4,***, Ryzen 3/5/7/9, as well as the range of AMD PRO.

5GIGABYTE GA-AB350M-DS3H V2

Overall, this is one of the best budget "mamok" for AMD processors with small form-factor microATX.

Pros:

• Low price
• 4 slots for memory
• Support for high frequency RAM
• There is potential for overclocking
• Support for M. 2 slot
• Adequate BIOS without having to update

Cons:

• Little video interfaces
• South bridge likes to bask
• Not very good location of the SATA connectors

4B450 ASRock Pro4

Recommended for a budget or on budget computers. An important advantage of this model is relevant B450 chipset architecture-enabled Zen+, and efficient (to the extent of their capacity) cooling. We just need to understand that there are limitations on the maximum physical length of the drive, and all because of the unfortunate location of the M. 2 slot (interface 2 here). Used a pretty good VRM heatsinks.

Board form factor ATX provides four slots for installing RAM type DDR4 slots and 6 SATA III. Supports 8-channel audio, as the audio chipset Realtek ALC892 supports.

Pros:

• Full payment for little money
• Pretty massive radiators
• 9 claimed power phases
• Native under-mount coolers AM3+
• A plurality of ports for 4pin fans
• The manufacturer releases new BIOS versions

Cons:

• Uncomfortable latch for the RAM and removing the tight straps
• Reaches DDR4 frequency of 3200 MHz is only for one plank
• Comes marriage

3GIGABYTE AORUS B450 M (Rev. 1.0)

This motherboard includes the RGB feature Fusion from a proprietary application, and convenient operation. This program adjusts the backlight brightness and the glow when you change the temperature or increasing the load on the processor. Option is ideal for CPU Ryzen 5 2600 or similar CPU. Option Smart Fan 5 provide control over the operation of each temperature sensor and fan.

There is also a hybrid connector that is able to determine and switch between modes of the cooling system. It is also important that GIGABYTE is constantly working on optimizing the BIOS, and this model is also traced.

Pros:

• A variety of ports
• Excellent backlight control
• A good subsystem of CPU power (4+2 phases)
• Memory can be overclocked up to 3400 MHz
• AutoProtect from overclocking
• Dual BIOS

Cons:

• The location of the M. 2 slot directly below the graphics card
• Scarce the BIOS settings for overclocking

2MSI B450 TOMAHAWK MAX

Trend model, which is highly liked by the customers and received extremely positive feedback. This is a great solution for the "stones" AMD of the middle segment, in such cases the heat of the VRM's (voltage regulator module) without adding an external cooler is always within the allowable. The Board has the sensors on the PCH and VRM, which distinguishes TOMAHAWK from peers.

From the previous model, not having consoles MAX, this has improved RAM support — now you can "drive" up to a frequency of 3400 elementary by activating XMP, and then to 3600 MHz in the presence of certain skills.

At the end of the purchase you get excellent overclocking capabilities, a large set of ports may be the best VRM on the market, and even RGB lighting

Pros:

• USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Type-A
• Supported interfaces drives and NVMe and SATA
• Convenient latch for RAM
• Advanced and highly customizable BIOS
• You can update the BIOS without CPU, video card, and RAM
• Good cooling of the VRM
• Special diagnostic LED indicators

Cons:

• Sound from Realtek (the drivers are always problematic and narrow functionality)
• Only one M. 2 connector

1X470 MSI GAMING PRO MAX

Best motherboard for Ryzen is considered X470 MSI GAMING PRO MAX. Fans of the above Tomahawk unable to shower caps that charge, but she won at least thanks to advanced chipset X470. The declared maximum frequency of memory (DDR4) — 4133 MHz. This "mother" shows the highest data transfer speed to date slot TURBO M. 2 + USB connector 3.2 GEN2 + technology Store MI.

MSI claims about the improved formula of power (Core Boost) for new multi-core CPU. There are two M. 2 port, support hot plug, Audio Boost with amplifier.

7-color lighting motherboard is synchronized with other devices enabled PCs RGB glow. Overall, appearance fees executed with style and rigor, so you should think about buying transparent case for PC.

Pros:

• Good build quality of the Board
• Efficient built-in cooling
• Decent sound for built-in of zvukovojj
• The convenient location of slots
• A lot of USB interfaces 3.2
• Advanced chipset
• Support 3-track Cross-fire (3 graphics cards can work together)
• Dual channel mode RAM

Cons:

• No Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules
• The BIOS only partially Russified

The best motherboard for socket Intel LGA 1150

Socket Intel LGA 1150 (Socket H3 or) was published in 2013 and is intended to be a replacement for the LGA 1155. Supports processors on the Haswell and Broadwell architectures, i.e., Intel Celeron (G18**), Pentium (G32**/G34**), Core i3 (41**/43**), Core i5 (44**/45**/46**, 5675C), Core i7 (47**, 5***K, 5775C) and Core i7 Extreme.

5. MSI H81M-E33

Budget motherboard for the computer is not left without the proper interest of buyers. Convenient form factor microATX allows you to set the fee in almost any system case. Buyers note that the mother Board overclock (though purely conventional) in the BIOS. There is a HDMI port, you can connect your HDTV. On the rear panel are 4 USB 2.0 slot that allows you to simultaneously connect 4 external device. There are 2 x USB 3.0, coaxial network adapter. Supported only two laths memory type DDR3.

Russian-language BIOS can't be met in each motherboard, especially on old LGA 1150 socket and here it is available and it can be controlled with the mouse.

Pros:

• 4 SATA (2 x 6Gb/s + 2 x 3Gb/s)
• Passive cooling
• Solid capacitors
• Low price
• Presentable packaging
• USB 3.0

Cons:

• Noted incompatibility with some graphics cards Radeon
• Not suitable for serious overclocking
• Technical limitations of the chipset

4ASUS Q87T

Relatively expensive motherboard on chipset Q87 (for its time, it showed high stability, efficiency and a good capacity) and a thin form factor thin mini-ITX. Supports installation of two RAM modules DDR3 with indicators of the frequency from 1066 to 1600 MHz. Maximum RAM is 16 GB. Built-in sound card works with 8-channel audio systems. There are 6 USB 3.0 ports, two high-speed (1000 Mbps) Ethernet port, HDMI, DisplayPort. The motherboard has PCI Express 3.0, 4 SATA connectors total number of connectors USB 11, S/PDIF output no.

The model supports simultaneous work with multiple graphics cards and Ultra HD 4K.

Pros:

• Functional software interface, ASUS AI Suite 3
• Intel Centrino WiFi + Bluetooth
• USB 3.0 Boost with a boost up to 170%
• Simplified UEFI BIOS, easy BIOS recovery
• Slim form factor
• Flexible configuration of the fans

Cons:

• Inflated price in 2020
• A small chipset heatsink

3H81MHV3 Biostar Ver. 7.x

The best inexpensive option for processors with socket LGA 1150, form factor — microATX. Allows you to install up to 2 laths DDR3 memory with a frequency of 1600/1333 MHz and the total amount of memory to 16 GB.

Built-in sound card supports 6-channel acoustics, has wireless modules. But "mother" has at its disposal 2 port USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A, PCI Express 2.0, 4 SATA slots (2.0 and 3.0). Buyers note the absence of any confusion in the process of assembling and connecting, thoughtful layout and good cables for SATA III in the kit.

Pros:

• Low price
• The location of the socket on the Board
• Excellent compatibility with Windows 10 and Debian 10, without drivers
• Clear the BIOS, no extra graphics
• USB version 3.2

Cons:

• No PCI Express 3.0
• No support for 8-channel sound

2ASRock H81 Pro BTC R2.0

Best motherboard for mining (mining crypto currencies). Tested in harsh operating conditions, the Board has proven its reliability and efficiency, so actively distributed so far. She has 4 phase CPU power design on the circuit, no radiator, so it is not recommended to set up here, honey and high-power CPUs. Well thought out placement of the components for the PCI-E power connectors is an extension. Used in the manufacturing of a reliable PCB, electronic components are durable.

In his later years H81 Pro BTC R2.0 has become so popular that competitors began to produce products, that is, "a blueprint". A vivid example — Esonic H81 BTC King, also able to work with 6 graphics cards.

Pros:

• 4 SATA (2 x 6Gb/s + 2 x 3Gb/s)
• Full work out of the box without hassle
• No heat bridges
• A narrow size, compactness
• Many PCI-E connectors
• Stable operation under conditions of constant mining

Cons:

• There is no second network interface
• Price over time slightly increased

1ASUS Z97-AR

Expensive, but the most powerful of the most interesting in the 2020 models in the LGA 1150 socket. The high price tag due to integrated optimization mechanism, a top at the moment of release of the components, but most importantly — a rare presence in the market. At the Board there are 4 slots for RAM DDR3, maximum volume is limited to 32 gigabytes. Supported integrated and discrete graphics with NVIDIA SLI technology and AMD CrossFireX. There is a port for M. 2 drives, SATA Express and 4 SATA III (6 Gb/s).

An interesting detail is the option of instant optimize PC. Just one click of the mouse you can adjust the speed of fan rotation, power consumption, frequency performance of the CPU and graphics adapter. Built-in sound card supports sound Asus Crystal Sound 2.

Pros:

• Good bundled software
• The convenient location of the ports
• Reliability
Strict black appearance
• 4 x SATA III
• High speed SATA Express and PCI m.2

Cons:

• The high price in 2020
• There is enhanced cooling of the chipset

Best gaming motherboards for Intel Socket 1151

The LGA 1151 socket (aka Socket H4) — a modern analogue of the LGA 1150, released in 2015. Supports the following Intel processors: Celeron (G3***G4***), Pentium (G4***/G5***), Core i3 / i5 / i7 / i9 (-9900**).

5GIGABYTE GA-B250-FinTech (Rev. 1.0)

Model 2018 release received just 12 PCI-Express 3.0 slots, additional power connectors 4-pin Molex, and also some important features for mining, such as special cable 3-in-1 for the synchronized operation in the circuit with multiple power supplies.

Form factor boards for several non-standard, dimensions mm 305х200 declared compatible with the families of processors Skylake-S and Kaby Lake-S. There are 4 slots for RAM DDR4 (frequency 2400 MHz), six SATA III ports. The sound card works on the codec Realtek ALC887, and to connect the network cable has a standard Gigabit interface.

Pros:

• The minimum price
• The convenient location of PCI relative to each other
• Comfortable BIOS online update
• 4 slots for RAM
• Connectivity from 12 cards for mining

Cons:

• No HDMI

4ASUS MAXIMUS VIII HERO

At the stage of unpacking VIII HERO will make a good impression — in the complete set there is everything you need, including 6 SATA cables and mounts for M. 2 drives.

Board size match the form factor ATX. Correct layout of elements allows even less experienced users do not have special problems when building a computer. To install memory there are 4 connector DDR4, the maximum volume is 64 GB. From ASUS stated about using the design model of the updated technology T-Topology that allows you to overclock the RAM frequency to 3733 MHz!

Overheating this "nurse" is not terrible — about cooling the CPU VRM care two radiator with a larger area. The main visual feature of the motherboard was the neck of a radiator in the form of the ROG logo. Pleasantly pleased that, after the release of this handset, its price has dropped significantly.

Pros:

• Impressive overclocking potential
• Powerful power subsystem, and efficient cooling
• Stable firmware with all the necessary tools for overclocking
• SSD support both types of interfaces
• USB Type-C with support for ThunderBolt
• An entirely reasonable price
• Appearance, RGB-backlight, brand elements

Cons:

• Mediocre features audio section
• Incompatibility with certain standard RAM

3Z390 GIGABYTE UD (Rev. 1.0)

One of the most affordable motherboards ATX chipset Z390. On-Board elements are arranged thoughtfully, so Assembly won't be a problem. Drive interface M. 2 and SATA III 6.

Z390 UD got 4 slots for RAM. Type — DDR4, supports dual-channel mode and the RAM frequency up to 4266 MHz, and the memory is limited to 128 gigabytes.

Cooling system is represented by three aluminum radiators. The test results show excellent performance, and all through proper material selection and design features. Panel interfaces presented HDMI video output, six USB sockets 3.1 Gen 1, the possibility of removal of the COM ports and Thunderbolt.

Pros:

• Support high-speed memory
• Efficient cooling
• Enhanced slot PCI Express 3.0 x16
• Block for strip backlight
• Good potential of manual and automatic overclocking
• Modern chipset
• Affordable price

Cons:

• 3 connector audio (problem connection of multichannel speakers)
• The simultaneous use of a number of interfaces are limited

2GIGABYTE AORUS Z390 ELITE (Rev. 1.0)

Motherboard with an index of "Elite" support profile RAM memory XMP, so that its frequency safely crosses over 4000 MHz. Drives data standard M. 2 NVMe show excellent performance thanks to the proprietary Thermal radiator Guard. The chipset supports Optane, which gives the growth performance of the disk subsystem. Thanks to the original controller ports built-in USB 3.1 can reach speeds up to 10 Gbps.

The manufacturer did a great job on cooling. The sensors on the Board allow the funds SmartFan 5 to control the operation of each fan, and if the temperature is below the value you set, the fan receives a stop command (Stop Fan).

Pros:

• A wide range of lighting settings
• Quality cooling
• 4 slots for RAM with a dual-channel mode
• 12+1 phase VRM
• Gigabyte Smart Fan 5
• Ports USB Type-C on the front panel
• Easy overclocking

Cons:

• Inconvenient location of the power connectors coolers

1MSI MEG Z390 ACE

Best motherboard for games in 2020. The product belongs to the gaming series MEG (formerly known as Extreme Gaming). The system Board has a multi-position mechanical activator for easy overclocking of the CPU. The sound card has got its own d / a Converter, and as a network controller made by game Killer E2500. There is also a wireless adapter Wi-Fi.

There are three "seats" under the M. 2 drives, and if the lower limit of the size of the device up to 8 cm long, the upper has no restrictions. 4 slots of RAM support the RAM frequency to 4500 MHz.

Pros:

• The Wi-Fi Module
• Low temperature during intense acceleration
• Many ready-made profiles for overclocking
• The ability to fine-tune power subsystems
• Convenient and multifunctional design
• Adjustable lighting with proprietary software Mystic Light
• Audio Audio Boost HD

Cons:

• The lack of MOS sensor in the system deceleration speed chillers
• Flimsy SATA cables included
• The lack of video output

What motherboard is better to buy in 2020?

Motherboard selection should be done in 2 stages.

First — the specs. Already decided on processor, graphics card, storage and RAM? Pick the "mother" given socket required version of PCI-E, the availability of M. 2 and/or several SATA III, frequency of RAM modules. Choose cost in the first place? Then start the second phase.

The second stage is personal "wishlist". Intend to overclock the CPU and RAM? Then you should look at boards suitable for overclocking. Wi-Fi RGB-backlight, cool signature SOFTWARE, latest version USB, a large number of slots for RAM, storage and other interfaces — all of this is sometimes necessary, and sometimes not. Fee is required for mining cryptocurrency? Then pay attention to the number of slots for simultaneous connection of several graphics cards.

Do not overpay for what you don't need. Remember that even the most budget motherboards capable of providing adequate work of the modern PC.

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